With summer upon us, now is the perfect time to get out and enjoy the gorgeous weather that only Southern California can provide. For those nature lovers out there, camping is a great summer escape from reality. To help get you motivated, we have profiled some of the top camping spots you need to check out before hitting the road. Whether you are tenting it or have an RV, we’ve got you covered.
San Elijo State Beach
Cardiff
Who doesn’t love an escape to San Diego? This park is ranked one of the top camping sites through Google Reviews. Located along a 2 mile stretch of the coast, San Elijo boasts swimming, surfing and a nearby popular reef for divers and snorkelers. Onsite showers, picnic areas and a convenience store make this a serene getaway with all of the comforts of home.
Crystal Cove State Park Moro Campground
Laguna Beach
This scenic park was also featured in our top hiking trails blog. Located off Pacific Coast Highway between Corona Del Mar and Laguna Beach, this lush area provides something for everyone. From the ocean to the rolling hills perfect for hiking and mountain biking, there is plenty to do for the whole family.
Oak Knolls Campground
Palomar Mountain
Located near San Diego off California State Highway 76, this beautiful escape offers something for everyone. In addition to onsite activities such as hiking, biking, gaming, star gazing, bird watching, swimming and boating, this resort is conveniently located near some of San Diego’s most popular attractions including Sea World, Wild Animal Park and the San Diego Zoo. In addition, it is just a car ride away from other popular sites including Lake Wohlford, Old Town Temecula and Wine Country and Old Town Julian.
Los Angeles/Pomona/Fairplex KOA (Kampgrounds of America)
Boasting the perfect combination of nature, family fun and city life, this site is the perfect escape from the congestion of the city but conveniently located within driving distance of all the LA hot spots. Just 30 minutes from either LA or Orange County, this site allows access to all of Southern California’s favorite escapes including amusement parks, outdoor trails, golf courses, mountains and beaches.
El Capitan Canyon/Ocean Mesa
Santa Barbara
Just 20 miles north of Santa Barbara, El Capitan Canyon Resort is nature lodging on the Southern California coast. This magnificent campground is surrounded by the Los Padres National Forest and sits above the Pacific Ocean. In addition to the onsite amenities including an ocean view swimming pool, miles of hiking trails and a playground, the canyon side of the resort offers concert series, complimentary beach cruiser bike rentals , guided hikes and more. Pamper yourself with one of the Ocean Mesa Spa Treatment Massages. Ocean kayaking, horseback riding and surfing lessons can also be arranged.
Lake Isabella/Kern River KOA
Weldon
Ideally located in the Sierra Mountains and backed up to the Kern River Preserve, this KOA offers easy access to whitewater rafting and kayaking along with boating, jet skiing, fishing, windsurfing and swimming at the nearby lake. Golfing, skiing and snowboarding are also just a short drive away. Positioned midway between Southern California and Yosemite, this centrally located campground is convenient for everyone.
Ventura Ranch KOA
Santa Paula
This lush 76 acre campground is nestled in Heritage Valley at the foot of Ventura County’s highest mountain, Topa Topa. This campground has accommodations to suit any camper from the highly experienced to the “glamping” type who wants to escape reality without foregoing the luxuries of daily life. With everything from large tent sites to Indian-styled teepees furnished with beds to RV sites and deluxe cabins, you are sure to find the ideal setting for your getaway. There is even a glamour tent available with full furnishings, electricity, microwave, mini-fridge and private patio. This campground even offers guests a complimentary In Search of Big Foot Night Adventure Walk to really get the full nature experience.
Pyramid Lake RV Resort
Gorman
Considered the best kept RV camping secret in Southern California, this full service RV resort is conveniently located near popular destinations such as Pyramid Lake, Quail Lake, Hungry Valley Offroad Park and Six Flags Magic Mountain. Enjoy hiking 3000 feet up, fishing at one of the nearby lakes or enjoy the sun poolside. Take a day trip to Universal Studios Hollywood, Magic Mountain or Los Angeles. With so much to do in and around this resort, it will take weeks to fit it all in.
Whether you are looking to escape to the beach or the mountains, these great resorts offer the best of both worlds and something for everyone in your group. For booking or additional details, please the links below. Get out and enjoy the adventure this summer!
San Elijo State Beach:
http://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=662
Crystal Cove State Park Moro Campground:
http://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=644
Oak Knolls Campground:
http://www.oakknoll.net/
Los Angeles/Pomona/Fairplex KOA (Kampgrounds of America):
http://koa.com/campgrounds/los-angeles/
El Capitan Canyon/Ocean Mesa:
http://www.oceanmesa.com/
Lake Isabella/Kern River KOA:
http://koa.com/campgrounds/lake-isabella/
Ventura Ranch KOA:
http://koa.com/campgrounds/ventura-ranch/
Pyramid Lake RV Resort:
http://www.larvpark.com/
Photo Credit: Thomas J. Story
